News / Blak Wave

Film by Bristol director celebrates black British tomboys of 1990s

By Ellie Pipe  Thursday Dec 21, 2023

The strength and pride that characterised the experiences of black British tomboys in the 1990s are celebrated in a new film.

Directed by Somina Fombo, Some Girls Hate Dresses offers a nostalgic look back in time through the lens of queer black women who offer a unique perspective on the intersectionality of race, gender and sexual orientation.

The short film, which is the winner of The Iris Prize Documentary Film Fund, delves into the nuances of identity, self-expression and resilience in a way that will resonate with audiences today.

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Ahead of the film’s global streaming premiere on January 4, its director and producer reflect on what has been a poignant project.

The strength and pride that characterised the experiences of black British tomboys in the 1990s are celebrated in a new film – image: Blak Wave Productions

Some Girls Hate Dresses is a celebration of the black British tomboys who fearlessly challenged societal norms,” says Somina, who grew up in Brislington and now lives in Southville.

The co-founder of Blak Wave Productions adds: “Through this film, we aim to shed light on their stories, highlighting the strength and pride that characterised their experiences during the vibrant 1990s.”

Director Somina Fombo says Some Girls Hate Dresses is “a celebration of the black British tomboys who fearlessly challenged societal norms” – photo: Tasha Hylton

Producer Alix Taylor-Searle adds: “We are really pleased to be able to share this very special film with a global audience.

“Created in collaboration with a group of black British queer women who shared their personal life-changing moments with us, we hope that their stories resonate with others out there and in turn they consider sharing their own story.”

Some Girls Hate Dresses was created in collaboration with a group of black British queer women – image: Blak Wave Productions

The film offers a nostalgic look back in time through the lens of queer black women – image: Blak Wave Productions

Supported by the Iris Prize Documentary Film Finance Fund sponsored by Froot and Aberystwyth University, Some Girls Hate Dresses premieres on OUTtv on January 4.

Main image (from film): Blak Wave Productions

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